The Hellenic Republic Ministry of Citizen Protection and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) presided over a conference, which convened drug enforcement officials from more than 130 countries, as said in a news release dated September 27.
"Drug trafficking knows no boundaries and remains a critical issue for every nation represented at IDEC. Global criminal drug networks operate without regard for geographic borders or the rule of law and defeating them requires a united and coordinated worldwide effort. DEA is proud to partner with the countries represented here to save lives and make communities around the world safer. IDEC brings together influential drug law enforcement leaders that are committed to building strategic relationships and expanding global cooperation," said DEA Administrator Anne Milgram.
According to the news release, the conference served as a platform for officials to discuss advancing technologies and expanding strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing global interdiction efforts. Discussions also addressed emerging drug-related threats, including synthetic drugs, cryptocurrency, and global money laundering.
IDEC was initiated in 1983, with the DEA and its international partners hosting events that include agency heads and law enforcement leaders to strengthen investigations, interdictions, and disrupt illicit drug trade activities.
During the conference, Michalis Chrisochoidis, Minister of Citizen Protection, highlighted the cooperation between the DEA and Greek authorities in combating drug trafficking networks. He emphasized international cooperation as essential for combating organized crime groups. Chrisochoidis described these principles as "the pillars upon which we must build, improve, and strengthen in order to erect a barrier against these international criminal networks."
The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), founded in 1973, aims to ensure proper implementation of U.S. laws regarding controlled substances and bring entities involved in their production or distribution to justice.
